Copycat Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning Recipe

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If you’ve ever reached for that little store-bought packet and wondered if you could make it yourself, you’re in the right place! Inspired by the one and only Pioneer Woman, this Pioneer Woman taco seasoning recipe is perfect for adding that kick of flavor we all crave in our tacos, burritos, and even soups.

How to make Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning

Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning is a spice-blend mix (either homemade using The Pioneer Woman’s recipe or a branded seasoning inspired by it) designed to flavor taco-style dishes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of Pioneer Woman taco seasoning. Chances are, many of these ingredients are already in your spice cabinet:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder – This gives the seasoning its classic smoky heat.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential to taco seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For a subtle sweetness and gorgeous color.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – A light touch of garlic brings extra depth to the mix.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Perfect for that savory foundation in your tacos.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – A hint of herbaceous goodness to round the flavor out.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)* – Adjust this for heat levels, depending on how spicy you like your tacos.
• ½ teaspoon salt – To balance the flavor beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick to the blend for extra warmth.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your flavorful homemade taco seasoning:

1. Measure the spices: Begin by carefully measuring out each spice and placing them into a small bowl.
2. Mix them together: Use a spoon or whisk to stir the spices until they’re evenly combined. Make sure the ingredients are blended thoroughly, so every bite of taco seasoning packs the same flavor punch.
3. Store it: Transfer the mixed seasoning to an airtight jar or container (a mason jar works perfectly). Label the container with the name and date, and store in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.
4. Use immediately or save for later: To use, simply sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of the seasoning per pound of ground beef, chicken, or beans while cooking. Adjust based on personal preference for intensity.

Helpful Tips

Here are a few tips to make the seasoning truly shine:

1. Adjust for spiciness: If you like your tacos extra spicy, don’t hold back on the crushed red pepper or add cayenne pepper to the mix. Prefer things mild? You can leave out the heat altogether.

2. Add cornstarch for thickening: If you enjoy that saucy texture in your taco filling, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mix. When cooking, it will help thicken the juices from your meat or vegetables beautifully.

3. Experiment with flavors: This recipe is an excellent base, but don’t be afraid to tweak it to your liking. For example, try adding smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor or even powdered chipotle for a rich, spicy twist.

4. Use it in more than just tacos: Don’t limit this seasoning to taco night! Sprinkle it on roasted veggies, add it to chili, or even use it as a rub for grilled chicken or steak. The possibilities are endless.

5. Keep your spices fresh: Use high-quality, fresh spices to ensure the best taste. If your jar of chili powder has been sitting in the pantry for years, it might not pack the same punch as a newer batch.

What to serve with

Using the Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning to whip up a batch of perfectly seasoned meat or veggies is just the beginning! The seasoning adds bold, satisfying flavor to your dishes, but pairing it with the right sides and toppings will take your taco night to the next level.

1. Classic Taco Fillings

Start by making your main taco protein with the homemade Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning. You can use:

• Ground beef, turkey, or chicken – The classic taco meat base.
• Shredded chicken – Easily seasoned and great for soft tortillas.
• Grilled steak, pork, or shrimp – For a heartier or more upscale twist.
• Vegetarian option – Black beans, chickpeas, roasted sweet potato, or even lentils seasoned with the taco blend.

Once your taco base is ready, dress it up with classic toppings:

• Shredded cheese – Cheddar or Cotija cheese work great.
• Diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro – Adds a pop of bright, herby flavor.
• Diced onions: Red onions or scallions are perfect for some zesty crunch.
• Shredded lettuce
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – For a creamy, cooling element.
• Guacamole or sliced avocado – Adds richness and creaminess.
• Salsa or pico de gallo: A fresh, tangy topping that complements the Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning.

2. Sides to Serve with Tacos

To round out your taco feast, consider serving it with one (or more) of these Mexican-inspired sides:

• Spanish Rice (Mexican Rice): A classic side that pairs beautifully with tacos. Flavored rice with garlic, onion, tomato sauce, and spices like cumin and paprika completes the meal.
• Refried Beans or Black Beans: Creamy refried beans or fragrant black beans are excellent complements. You can season them with a touch of the taco spice mix for extra flavor.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, Cotija cheese, lime, chili powder, and cilantro is an irresistible side dish that enhances every taco night.
• Tortilla Chips and Queso Dip: Serve warm tortilla chips alongside a creamy, cheesy queso dip or a vibrant bowl of salsa for snacking as you prep the tacos.
• Fresh Corn Salad: Combine fresh corn kernels, diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing side salad that echoes the taco flavors.
• Southwest Salad: A colorful salad with romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, cheese, and a zesty lime dressing completes the meal beautifully.

Ingredients substitutes

One of the best things about making homemade Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning is the flexibility to adapt it based on your pantry staples or dietary needs. If you’re missing some ingredients or want to tweak the flavor profile, don’t worry—you have plenty of options!

1. Chili Powder Substitute

Chili powder forms the backbone of any taco seasoning, bringing a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. If you don’t have chili powder, try:

• Smoked Paprika: For a milder flavor with a smoky twist. You can also add red pepper flakes or cayenne to spice it up.
• Chipotle Powder: Adds smokiness with a bolder heat profile.
• Ground Ancho Chili Powder: A milder, earthy option, perfect for seasoning without too much heat.
• If you want a DIY alternative, mix paprika with a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper for a homemade chili powder.

2. Cumin Substitute

Cumin provides that distinct warm, earthy flavor in taco seasoning. If you’re out of cumin, try:

• Coriander Powder: Coriander is sweeter but has a similar earthy quality. You can use it as a close substitute.
• Caraway Seeds: These are slightly more pungent but can mimic cumin in small amounts.
• Curry Powder: Adds a mild cumin-like flavor (use cautiously to avoid dominating the taco taste).
• Garam Masala: Offers a hint of cumin along with warming spices, but use sparingly to prevent altering the seasoning’s flavor too much.

3. Paprika Substitute

Paprika provides subtle sweetness and color to the blend. Depending on what you have available, you can substitute it with:

• Smoked Paprika: For a bolder, smoky flavor that adds depth to your taco meat.
• Ground Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne is much spicier, so use roughly ¼ the amount of paprika called for.
• Chili Powder: If you’ve already used chili powder, you can count on it for some paprika-like flavor (although you may lose some sweetness).
• Aleppo Pepper: Ideal for a milder, subtly fruity flavor, plus a beautiful hint of red color.

4. Garlic Powder Substitute

Garlic powder gives a savory essence to taco seasoning, but you can replace it or enhance your blend with:

• Granulated Garlic: Similar to garlic powder but slightly coarser, it works the same way in spice blends.
• Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic if you’re planning to cook your taco seasoning immediately; about 1 finely minced clove equals ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Onion Powder: While not quite the same, it complements the seasoning and adds another depth of savory flavor.

5. Onion Powder Substitute

Onion powder adds mild sweetness and savoriness. If you’re out, try:

• Granulated Onion: It’s essentially the same as onion powder but less finely ground.
• Fresh Onion: Finely dice or mince fresh onion if you’re making a wet taco seasoning (but it won’t store as well).
• Chives or Scallions: While not an exact match, they add a similar onion-like flavor, though best used fresh.

6. Oregano Substitute

Oregano brings a subtle herbaceous and slightly bitter flavor to taco seasoning. If you’re out of dried oregano, here are alternatives:

• Dried Marjoram: Similar in flavor but milder and sweeter.
• Italian Seasoning: Contains oregano along with other herbs like thyme and basil; use in small amounts to avoid changing the flavor profile.
• Thyme: A bit sharper and earthier but works in small quantities.
• Mexican Oregano: If you happen to have this variety, it’s even better for authentic taco seasoning.

7. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Substitute

Crushed red pepper flakes lend heat and a bit of texture, but there are several ways to replace or alter the spiciness:

• Cayenne Pepper: A more intense level of spice; use sparingly (start with ¼ teaspoon).
• Chipotle Powder: For a smoky, spicy kick that complements taco seasoning beautifully.
• Chili Powder: If you’re using a spicier chili powder, it covers both heat and flavor in one.

8. Salt Substitute

Salt brings balance to the spice blend. If you’re looking for alternatives, try:

• Garlic Salt: A two-in-one replacement if you’re missing garlic powder as well.
• Sea Salt/Fine Kosher Salt: A cleaner, lighter option compared to traditional table salt.
• Celery Salt: Adds a slightly savory twist to the blend.
• Low-Sodium Options: If you’re watching your sodium, you can skip the salt altogether and let other spices shine.

9. Black Pepper Substitute

Black pepper adds a mild heat and warmth to the seasoning. Alternatives include:

• White Pepper: Milder and more understated in flavor.
• Ground Aleppo Pepper: Provides a slightly tangy flavor with gentle heat—great for spicing up the blend!
• Ground Mustard: Adds a sharp, pepper-like kick, though it’s a bit different in profile.

Final Thoughts

With this Pioneer Woman Taco Seasoning recipe, you’ll never go back to pre-packaged taco seasoning! It’s simple, fresh, and ridiculously flavorful—it’s bound to become your go-to spice blend for tacos (and much more). 

More Seasoning Recipes:

• Chupacabra Seasoning Recipe
• Chicken Crack Seasoning Recipe