McCormick Fajita Seasoning Recipe

This homemade fajita seasoning mix infuses the bold and vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into your favorite dishes. It is perfect for spicing up fajitas, tacos, and grilled veggies, plus it lasts for a long time in the pantry. 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 chickpea fajitas or flavoring a tofu recipe, this dynamic blend delivers the perfect balance of heat and savoriness.

Making your own fajita seasoning is simple and lets you control the quality and intensity of flavors. With just nine ingredients and a few minutes, you’ll have a seasoning mix far superior to anything you can buy off the shelf.

Why You’ll Love This McCormick Fajita Seasoning Copycat Recipe

I’ve tested this blend dozens of times to get the ratios right, and here’s what makes it worth ditching the store-bought packets for good:

• Ready in five minutes with pantry spices you already own
• No additives, no anti-caking agents, no excess sodium
• Fully adjustable to your heat preference

BEST Fajita Seasoning Recipe

Jump to the recipe card for exact measurements!

• Chili Powder: Forms the base of the mix, providing warmth and depth. 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

Making a copycat McCormick fajita seasoning is so easy and takes less than 5 minutes! Jump to the recipe card for full instructions!

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.

McCormick Fajita Seasoning Recipe 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, and cinnamon. 

Fun Ways to Use Homemade 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.

• Slow Cooker Mexican Rice Bowl: This is an obvious choice for a fajita spice mix.
• Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Casserole: Turn this dish into a Tex-Mex taco pasta with fajita spices.
• Tempeh Vegan Burrito Bowl: This is a perfect place to use your homemade seasoning blend.

How to Store Homemade Fajita Seasoning

Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place and the blend will keep for six months to a year. The shelf life is only as good as the individual spices you used, so check expiration dates before mixing a large batch. If you open the jar and the smell is faint, it’s time for a fresh one.