I Asked 3 Experts To Name the Best Taco Seasoning, and They All Said the Same Brand

No matter your background, Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, and more are staples in kitchens all across the country—including mine. I love how savory, zesty, and delicious these classics are. 

They’re also versatile. I often do a fridge clean-out when making Mexican-inspired dishes since their flavors pair well with a wide variety of vegetables and proteins.

One key ingredient I always keep on hand: taco seasoning. Even when I’m not making tacos, this seasoning often finds its way into recipes like chili, queso, seasoned rice, and stewed beans. While I usually just grab whatever’s on the shelf at my local grocer, I was curious about which brand experts prefer. Interestingly, after asking a few, I discovered they all recommended the same one!

The Experts I Asked

• Kate Ramos: Chef and founder of ¡Hola! Jalapeño and Kate’s Best Recipes
• Alejandra Graf: Mexican-born chef and creator behind Mexican food blog, Ale Cooks
• Erin Clarke: Best-selling author of Well Plated Cookbook and Well Plated Every Day and creator of recipe blog Well Plated

The Best Store-Bought Taco Seasoning, According to Food Pros

Unanimously, these foodies all agree that Simply Organic Spicy Taco Seasoning is the tastiest option out there.

“Simply Organic Taco Seasoning is widely available, certified organic, and has a clean, well-balanced flavor profile without unnecessary fillers,” explains Ramos.

Graf agrees: “I love that it has clean, organic ingredients, isn’t overly salty, and avoids fillers. It tastes fresh and balanced—making it a solid option when you need something quick and easy.”

Clarke also selects this seasoning for its recognizable ingredients and delicious taste—it’s one of the few brands she doesn’t have to doctor up at home. “I like knowing I’m using real spices without fillers or preservatives, and the flavor has a little kick without being overwhelming. It’s smoky, warm, and super versatile. I keep a few packets in my pantry at all times for quick dinners,” she says.

This seasoning checks all the major ingredient boxes these experts expect out of a flavorful taco mix. “The essentials for me are ground dried chiles, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, coriander, and a touch of smoked paprika for warmth,” shares Ramos. It’s also an added bonus that this supermarket convenience is easy to find and incredibly affordable at around two dollars per packet.

Ideas for Using Taco Seasoning at Home

These foodies aren’t just using this seasoning mix for tacos—they add this mix to plenty of other recipes. “Funnily enough, I use taco seasoning most often for things other than tacos! I use it to sauté ground beef or turkey for a base in burrito-style bowls,” says Clarke.

Ramos also gets creative with this seasoning blend. “Don’t be afraid to experiment with taco seasoning beyond tacos—try it in chili, sprinkled on popcorn, or mixed into sour cream for an easy dip. It really does make a difference.”

Meanwhile Graf adds it to meats destined for a variety of dishes—including tacos. “I’ll follow the directions on the packet, but I almost always add something fresh to make it come alive—like lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or even a splash of vinegar,” she adds.

I know which taco seasoning packet I’ll be looking for on my next grocery run!