Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix makes Taco Tuesdays (or any day) a breeze!
We make something involving taco meat every week. Tacos, salads, Tater Tot Nachos…I’m up for putting taco meat on just about anything!
When Trader Joe’s came out with their taco seasoning mix, I was ecstatic. Up until that point, I had been cobbling together my own seasoning mix in an effort to avoid the less-than-desirable ingredients in most mixes. But I’m lazy and always short on time, so a packet that has clean ingredients and is only $.79 was a dream-come-true.
Each packet, if made according to the directions, is enough for two pounds of beef. For most families, this means each packet is good for two meals, which makes Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix even more economical.
The recipe on the packet calls for combining half of the packet with ground beef and onion and then adding a 14-ounce container of tomatoes or tomato sauce. This stuff is hot, y’all, and the first time I made it according to the directions it set my whole head on fire. Normally I love spicy food, but this was too much for me and my kids wouldn’t touch it. So I recommend only using 3 or 4 teaspoons instead of half of the packet. You’ll still get plenty of flavor without all of the pain.
Nutritional Information for Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix
Like most seasoning mixes, Trader Joe’s version contains a fair amount of sodium and some sugar, which means if you’re on Whole30, or trying to avoid either of those, you’re still stuck making your own.
The ingredients list is pretty clean, though, and there are no mystery ingredients. As usual for a Trader Joe’s brand product, there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Bonus points for all of you allergy sufferers out there – this taco seasoning is gluten-, nut-, and dairy-free!
Verdict: Recommend!
While I think this seasoning mix is way too hot if made according to the directions, you can use less and still get a delicious end result. I use this at least once a week, and absolutely love it!
Have you tried Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix? Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
Looking for more reviews? Try these!
OMG – use only a few teaspoons!!! We like spicy but this was out of control HOT!!
So hot!!!
I was shocked on how hot this was! Two tacos and I needed to take a break! Def dont use the entire packet!
I can’t believe you made it through two!
I made taco soup with it and I normally use 2 taco seasoning packets (or the equivalent amount if I’m mixing up my own mix) but I only put one TJ’s packet. It was WAY too spicy! I was about to put in a second packet before I tasted it, I’m SO GLAD I didn’t. The soup is barely tolerable and I’m the only one that will eat it! It should come with a warning label! I added in lime chips and half an avocado on my bowl, just so I could eat it!
Yikes! They really should change the package directions, right?
I used the whole packet for one pound of beef. I didn’t read the directions. Every packet of taco seasoning I’ve ever bought is one packet for one pound. Totally ruined my dinner. Disgusting. Not a fan. Sort of my fault I guess but this is not an item I’m used to stretching my dollar on. Trader Joe’s really annoyed me with this one.
I love spicy food and actually use the entire packed for 1 lb of beef :). Bring on the heat!!!
You are much stronger than I am! LOL!
Omg I used half the packet and then had to wash the meat with water and I’m still suffering through dinner.
There really should be a warning label!
I’ve learned my lesson and just lightly sprinkle it on the meat. One pack will last for several meals!
I used one packet with a bag of cauliflower. I love hot so thought it was perfect. A little too hot for my friends. I find all TJ products don’t exaggerate when they say spicy or hot. Most other companies make false spicy claims
Love the idea of using it to season cauliflower!
Omg I literally felt the spice exuding from my skin after one bite and immediately got heartburn. This seasoning is WAY too spicy. I do not recommend at all.
Using with sazon to roast whole chicken for pulled chicken fajitas
That sounds amazing!
This is the best!! I make an 8qt. crock pot of beans with; 4lbs. of ground beef, 3 diced sweet onions, sliced fresh mushrooms, 3 kinds of beans (Pinto/Black/Kidney), small can of minced jalapenos, (not drained if you want it extra hot), diced green chilies and diced tomatoes…my friends and neighbors always ask for more. I use from 1 to 2 packets of Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning Mix depending on how spicy I want it to be. The smell of the crock slow cooking several hours is wonderful!
P.S. Forgot to wish you (Jenifer) all the best with your BC!
That sounds delicious! And thank you for your good wishes!