Name: Copycat Taco Bell Seasoning
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes; 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon white sugar

If you’re anything like me, a die-hard Taco Bell fan, you know that sometimes the craving for that savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavor is just irresistible. However, you also understand the importance of making healthier choices. That’s where this homemade taco seasoning comes into play. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy that Taco Bell-inspired goodness while still keeping things on the healthier side. I typically use this seasoning blend with ground turkey, but you can experiment with other lean meats or even plant-based alternatives. Plus, it’s not just for tacos – you can use it for lettuce wraps, taco salads, and more. So, let’s dive into this recipe and elevate your taco game!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon white sugar

Directions

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you embark on your Taco Bell-inspired culinary journey, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. Having everything in place will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Create the Taco Seasoning Mix

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together your ingredients. The combination of these spices and seasonings is the secret to achieving that signature Taco Bell flavor. The dried onion flakes add a delightful hint of oniony goodness, while the cumin and paprika infuse smokiness and depth into your seasoning mix. The white sugar helps balance out the flavors, giving your taco filling that addictive sweet-savory touch.

Using The Seasoning

Next, you’ll need 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your chosen meat. Brown it until it’s thoroughly cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. If you’re using ground beef, you may want to drain off any excess fat to keep things on the healthier side.

Once your meat is cooked, it’s time to introduce it to the magic of your homemade taco seasoning. Sprinkle the entire seasoning mix evenly over the cooked meat.

To achieve that saucy, Taco Bell-inspired texture, pour in 2/3 cup of water over the seasoned meat. This liquid will help meld the flavors together and create a mouthwatering sauce that coats every bit of your meat. Stir the seasoned meat and water together, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This simmering step allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich and satisfying taco filling. It’s during this time that your kitchen will be filled with the unmistakable aroma of Taco Bell goodness.

Enjoy

Once your taco filling is ready, you have numerous options for serving. Spoon it into taco shells, wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative, or toss it onto a bed of fresh greens for a delicious taco salad. Top it off with your favorite taco fixings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for the full Taco Bell experience.

There you have it – a homemade taco seasoning recipe that captures the essence of Taco Bell’s flavors while keeping things on the healthier side. Say goodbye to those seasoning packets and hello to the satisfaction of creating your own taco masterpiece. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a weeknight craving, this recipe will be your go-to for satisfying your Taco Bell obsession while maintaining a balanced diet. Enjoy!