Homemade Fajita Seasoning Recipe (McCormick's Copycat) (2024)

Infuse the bold and vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into your favorite dishes with this homemade fajita seasoning mix! It is perfect for spicing up fajitas, tacos, and grilled veggies. Say goodbye to store-bought packets forever!

Fajita seasoning is a must-have in any spice arsenal, especially for those who love a little Tex-Mex flair in their meals. Whether you’re making vegetable fajitas or flavoring a tofu recipe, this dynamic blend delivers the perfect balance of heat and savoriness.

Making your own fajita seasoning is not only simple but also lets you control the quality and intensity of flavors. With just 9 ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you’ll have a seasoning mix that’s far superior to anything you can buy off the shelf.

Plus, this recipe perfectly measures out to 35 grams (1.23 ounces), so it can easily replace store-bought packets like McCormick’s. It’s a breeze to use in any recipe that calls for fajita seasoning.

Ingredients & substitutions

• Chili Powder: Forms the base of the mix, providing warmth and depth. If needed, substitute chili powder with a mix of paprika and a pinch of cayenne.
• Cumin: Adds earthy, smoky notes. Ground coriander is a good alternative.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the mix. Omit the salt for a low-sodium seasoning blend.
• Paprika: Gives a sweet, peppery flavor. Smoked paprika can be used for a smoky taste.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a pungent, savory touch. Granulated garlic can be used in a pinch, but you will need approximately double the amount.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sharpness with sweet undertones. Substitute it with a small amount of finely ground dried onion flakes if necessary.
• Oregano: Introduces a hint of herbaceous warmth. I recommend Mexican oregano over Mediterranean oregano if you can find it. Marjoram also works as a substitute.
• Sugar: You just need a touch to balance the heat and spices.
• Cayenne Pepper: For a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or omit it for a milder mix.

How to make fajita seasoning mix

Making a copycat McCormick fajita seasoning is so easy and takes less than 5 minutes! Here’s what to do:

1. Mix: Combine all the spices in a bowl. Ensure they are thoroughly mixed for an even flavor distribution in every spoonful.
2. Store: Transfer your fajita seasoning mix into an airtight container, like a spice jar or a small mason jar.

Storage

When stored in an airtight container or jar, this fajita seasoning mix should stay fresh for up to 6 months to a year. Always double-check the expiration dates of individual spices to gauge the overall shelf life of the mix, especially if you make a large batch.

To extend the shelf life, keep your spice mix in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry, cupboard, or spice drawer.

Top tips

• Freshness Counts: Always use freshly purchased spices for the most vibrant flavor, or check to make sure they are well within their expiration dates.
• Label Your Mix: Don’t forget to date your seasoning mix to keep track of its freshness.
• Keep it Dry: Ensure your storage container is completely dry before adding the seasoning, and keep it away from steam. Moisture can cause clumping and spoilage.
• Make it in Bulk: If you love the flavor, make a large batch to have on hand for quick and easy seasoning of meals.

Variations

Feel free to play around with the ratios or add additional spices like smoked paprika and chipotle powder for a smokier version.

This recipe can be used as a guideline, acting as a canvas to make it uniquely yours! Some other great spices to experiment with are ground coriander, ancho chile powder, turmeric, ginger, lime, and cinnamon.

Frequently asked questions

Fun Ways To Use Fajita Seasoning

While fajitas are the obvious choice for using fajita seasoning, there are a ton of ways to use this versatile mix! Don’t be afraid to incorporate it into traditional and non-traditional recipes like these:

• Slow Cooker Mexican Rice Bowl
• Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Casserole
• Tempeh Vegan Burrito Bowl
• Tempeh Tacos with Avocado Kiwi Salsa
• Mexican Bean Salad
• Enchilada Quinoa Stuffed Peppers