When it comes to cooking with ground beef, the right seasoning can make all the difference. Whether you’re making tacos, meatballs, or burgers, a flavorful seasoning blend can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ground beef seasoning recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic flavors like Italian and Mexican-inspired dishes, to bold and adventurous options like Cajun and Jamaican jerk, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to create delicious meals that your family and friends will love.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 18 seasoning recipes, exploring the unique flavors and ingredients that make them so special. From simple blends of herbs and spices to more complex mixtures of meats and vegetables, there’s something on this list for every taste and style.
Classic Homemade Taco Seasoning for Ground Beef
Elevate your taco game with this simple recipe for homemade seasoning! This blend of spices and herbs will add depth and flavor to your ground beef, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Mix well until the spices are fully incorporated.
3. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the homemade seasoning per pound of ground beef.
4. Cook the seasoned ground beef according to your desired method (e.g., browning in a skillet or cooking in a slow cooker).
Cooking Time: None, as this is a seasoning blend. Simply add it to your cooked ground beef and adjust to taste.
Savory Italian Meatball Seasoning Blend
Add a burst of authentic Italian flavor to your meatballs with this blend of aromatic spices and herbs. Perfect for homemade meatballs, pasta sauces, and marinades.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Mix until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
Cooking Time: None (dry blend only)
Use this Savory Italian Meatball Seasoning Blend to add depth and warmth to your meatballs, pasta sauces, or as a marinade for chicken or beef. Simply mix with ground meat before forming into balls, or sprinkle over cooked pasta for an added layer of flavor.
Spicy Cajun Ground Beef Seasoning
Elevate your dishes with a bold and spicy kick! This homemade seasoning blend combines the rich flavors of cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic to create a signature Cajun flair.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
None required! This seasoning blend is ready to use immediately.
Smoky BBQ Burger Seasoning Mix
Elevate your burgers with a rich, smoky flavor profile reminiscent of backyard BBQs. This seasoning mix combines the boldness of paprika and chili powder with the sweetness of brown sugar and the tanginess of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon citric acid (or lemon zest)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Mix well until evenly blended.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over your favorite burger patty or use as a marinade for added flavor.
Cooking Time: None needed! This seasoning mix is ready to use immediately.
Garlic and Herb Ground Beef Seasoning
Add a burst of flavor to your ground beef dishes with this simple seasoning blend. This aromatic mixture combines the pungency of garlic with the brightness of herbs, perfect for burgers, meatballs, or tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, thyme, and paprika.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly blended.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required! This seasoning is ready to use straight away.
Mexican-Inspired Carne Asada Seasoning
Elevate your grilled meats with this flavorful blend of spices and herbs, inspired by traditional Mexican carne asada. This seasoning is perfect for marinating steaks, chicken, or pork before grilling.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cilantro leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. If using cilantro, add it to the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Cooking Time: None (this is a dry seasoning blend). Apply before grilling your favorite meats.
Greek-Style Gyro Meat Seasoning
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your gyro meat with this simple seasoning blend. Perfect for wraps, sandwiches, or as a topping for veggies and rice bowls.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
– None! This seasoning is ready to use straight away.
Sweet and Smoky Kansas City Rub
Add a touch of sweetness and smokiness to your BBQ with this classic Kansas City-style rub. Perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork before grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly blended.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
– Not applicable; this rub is meant to be used as a dry seasoning before cooking.
Jamaican Jerk Ground Beef Seasoning
Add a bold Caribbean twist to your ground beef dishes with this aromatic jerk seasoning blend! Perfect for tacos, burgers, or meatballs, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the islands.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
None required! This seasoning blend is ready to use whenever you need it.
Moroccan Spiced Kefta Seasoning
Elevate your keftas (Middle Eastern meatballs) with this aromatic blend of spices, herbs, and chilies. This flavorful seasoning is perfect for adding depth and warmth to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, coriander powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Add salt to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
This seasoning blend is ready to use immediately! Simply sprinkle it over your keftas, meat dishes, or vegetables before serving.
Korean Bulgogi-Style Ground Beef Marinade
This classic Korean marinade elevates ground beef to a new level of flavor and tenderness, perfect for burgers, tacos, or served with rice and kimchi. With its sweet and savory profile, this marinade is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat. Cook ground beef according to your preference (e.g., burgers, tacos).
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Rustic French Herbes de Provence Blend
This aromatic blend captures the essence of Provençal cuisine, combining earthy herbs and spices to add depth and warmth to a variety of dishes. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a fragrant mixture perfect for seasoning meats, vegetables, or soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
2. Add paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl and mix until well combined.
3. Store the blend in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
None required – simply use as needed to season your favorite dishes!
Texas Chili Powder Seasoning Mix
Add a dash of Texas flavor to your chili with this simple seasoning mix. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be ready to fire up the pot and get cooking!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. If desired, add cayenne pepper and stir to incorporate.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None! This seasoning mix is ready to use straight away.
Indian-Spiced Keema Seasoning
Elevate your dishes with this aromatic blend of Indian spices, perfect for adding depth and warmth to a variety of recipes. This homemade keema seasoning is easy to make and can be used as a marinade or seasoning in a pinch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small dry skillet, toast the coriander and cumin seeds over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Grind the toasted spices into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Mix in the cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
5. Store the keema seasoning in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required! Use as needed in your favorite recipes.
Zesty Lemon Pepper Ground Beef Rub
Brighten up your meals with this zesty lemon pepper ground beef rub! This flavorful blend of citrus, spices, and herbs is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup black pepper
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest (freshly grated)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and paprika.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Rub the mixture evenly onto 1-2 pounds of ground beef, making sure to cover all surfaces.
4. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking or refrigerate overnight.
5. Cook the ground beef as desired (e.g., grill, pan-fry, or use in a recipe).
Cooking Time: Varies depending on cooking method and level of doneness.
Middle Eastern Baharat Spice Blend
Baharat is a classic Middle Eastern spice blend that adds depth and warmth to a variety of dishes, from meats and stews to vegetables and rice. This aromatic blend combines the richness of cumin with the brightness of coriander.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the coriander and cumin seeds in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
2. Let the toasted spices cool completely.
3. Grind the cooled spices into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Mix the ground spices with the cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl.
5. Store the Baharat blend in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: N/A
All-Purpose Umami Bomb Seasoning
Elevate your dishes with a rich, savory flavor boost! This all-purpose seasoning blend combines the depth of umami flavors to add complexity and excitement to any recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried mushrooms (such as shiitake or porcini)
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the dried mushrooms, fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required! This seasoning blend is ready to use immediately.
Tangy Carolina-Style Mustard Rub
This tangy rub adds a burst of flavor to meats, vegetables, and even deviled eggs! Perfect for BBQs or everyday snacks, this mustard-based blend combines the brightness of vinegar with the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None! This rub is meant to be used as a seasoning, not cooked.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your ground beef dishes with these 18 flavorful seasoning recipes! From classic taco seasoning to international-inspired blends, there’s something for every occasion. Try making a savory Italian meatball seasoning blend, or spice up your burgers with a smoky BBQ seasoning mix. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican carne asada or Moroccan kefta, these seasonings will take your dishes to the next level. With options ranging from sweet and smoky to zesty and tangy, there’s no excuse not to get creative with your ground beef recipes!
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