Understanding Your Taco Tuesday: How many calories are in Great Value taco seasoning?

November 6, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, one 2-teaspoon (5g) serving of the original Great Value taco seasoning contains approximately 15 calories. When planning a meal, understanding the nutritional information for every component, including the seasoning, is crucial for those watching their intake and is a primary consideration for answering the question, 'How many calories are in Great Value taco seasoning?'.

Quick Summary

This article details the nutritional information for various Great Value taco seasoning varieties, including calorie counts, fat, and sodium content. It explains how to interpret these facts and provides healthy alternatives and preparation tips to control sodium and calories for a balanced diet.

Key Points

Low Calorie Count: Great Value taco seasoning has a minimal number of calories, with the original variety containing approximately 15-20 calories per 2-teaspoon serving.
High Sodium Content: The original mix is high in sodium (300-420mg per serving), making the Reduced Sodium version a better choice for those on low-sodium diets.
Ingredient Variations: Different varieties like Original, Reduced Sodium, and Chipotle have different caloric and sodium levels, so always check the specific product label.
DIY Alternatives: Making your own taco seasoning from chili powder, cumin, and other spices is an effective way to control sodium and avoid corn-based additives.
Meal Context is Key: The overall calorie and nutritional impact of a taco meal depends more on the protein and toppings chosen than on the seasoning packet itself.

Deciphering the Nutritional Label of Great Value Taco Seasoning

When preparing a meal, paying attention to even the smallest ingredients can add up. Taco seasoning packets, while adding a burst of flavor, also contribute to the overall nutritional profile of your dish. Great Value, Walmart's store brand, offers several varieties of taco seasoning, each with slightly different nutritional values.

For the original Great Value taco seasoning mix, the calorie count is relatively low. The most recent data indicates that a standard serving of 2 teaspoons (5g) contains about 15 calories. Other reported values, such as 20 calories, may apply to specific packages or older formulations. The calories in this seasoning primarily come from the corn-based thickeners and sugars used in the mix, rather than fat. A serving typically contains 3-4 grams of carbohydrates and no fat.

Beyond calories, the most significant nutritional component is sodium. The original mix contains a considerable amount of sodium, often over 300mg per serving, which can be a concern for those monitoring their salt intake. The Reduced Sodium version is a better option for a heart-healthy diet, with some labels indicating around 210mg of sodium per serving.

A Nutritional Breakdown of Great Value Taco Seasoning Varieties

To make an informed choice, consider the specific variety of Great Value taco seasoning you are using. The nutritional content can vary based on the specific blend of spices and fillers.

Original Taco Seasoning

Serving Size: 2 tsp (5g)
Calories: 15-20 kcal
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: ~300-420mg
Carbohydrates: 3-4g

Reduced Sodium Taco Seasoning

Serving Size: 2 tsp (5g)
Calories: ~15 kcal
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: ~210mg
Carbohydrates: 3g

Chipotle Taco Seasoning

Serving Size: Unspecified (varies by product)
Calories: ~10 kcal per serving
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: N/A (requires specific package info)
Carbohydrates: N/A (requires specific package info)

Comparison of Great Value Taco Seasoning Varieties


Feature	Original	Reduced Sodium	Chipotle
Calories (per 2 tsp/5g)	15-20 kcal	~15 kcal	~10 kcal
Total Fat	0g	0g	0g
Sodium (per 2 tsp/5g)	300-420mg	~210mg	Varies
Total Carbohydrate	3-4g	3g	Varies
Best For	Standard recipe, general use.	Sodium-controlled diets, heart-healthy eating.	Those seeking a smokier, spicier flavor profile.

The Role of Taco Seasoning in Your Overall Diet

While the calories from the seasoning packet itself are minimal, it's essential to consider the rest of your meal. The beef, cheese, sour cream, and toppings are the real calorie and fat drivers in a taco dish. The seasoning's main health consideration is its high sodium content. Excessive sodium intake can lead to elevated blood pressure and other health issues.

Here are some tips for building a healthier taco night:

Choose Lean Meats: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of higher-fat beef to reduce total fat and calories.
Make Your Own Seasoning: A DIY taco seasoning mix can give you complete control over the ingredients. A simple mix can include chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a dash of salt, with much less sodium. This also avoids additives like maltodextrin.
Load Up on Veggies: Use lots of fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Sautéed peppers and onions can also add bulk and nutrients without many calories.
Swap Smart: Instead of sour cream, use plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost. Choose salsa over cheese to add flavor with fewer calories.

How to Manage Calories and Sodium in Your Taco Meal

Balancing flavor with nutrition is the key to a satisfying yet healthy meal. Taco seasoning is a perfect example of a small ingredient with a big impact. By being mindful of the following, you can enjoy your tacos without compromising your dietary goals:

Measure Accurately: Use measuring spoons to ensure you are only adding the intended amount of seasoning. Avoid simply pouring from the packet.
Prioritize Lean Proteins: The base of your taco is a major source of calories. A switch from 80/20 ground beef to 93/7 lean ground beef or ground turkey can significantly reduce total fat.
Embrace Homemade: If you have time, making your own seasoning allows you to use healthier ingredients and avoid bioengineered additives that may be present in some store-bought mixes.

Conclusion: The Final Tally

The calories in Great Value taco seasoning are not the primary concern for most diet plans due to their low count. The key nutritional factor to watch is the sodium content, which can be high in the standard version. Choosing the Reduced Sodium option or making your own seasoning are great ways to mitigate this. Ultimately, a balanced and healthy taco night comes down to the overall composition of the meal, including your choice of protein, toppings, and portion sizes. With a little awareness, you can ensure your taco Tuesday remains a delicious and health-conscious tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Great Value taco seasoning does not have a lot of calories. A standard 2-teaspoon serving of the original mix contains only about 15-20 calories.

The main nutritional concern is the sodium content, which can be high, especially in the original version. The reduced sodium version is a lower-sodium alternative.

A 2-teaspoon serving of Great Value taco seasoning typically contains 3-4 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from corn maltodextrin and cornstarch.

There is no significant difference in calorie count between the two. The primary difference is the sodium level, which is lower in the reduced sodium variety.

You can reduce the sodium by using the reduced sodium version of Great Value taco seasoning, or by making your own seasoning blend at home to control the salt content entirely.

The primary calorie sources in pre-packaged taco seasoning are the corn-based thickeners, such as corn maltodextrin and cornstarch, as well as added sugar.

For a healthier meal, use lean ground turkey or chicken, opt for the reduced sodium seasoning, and fill your tacos with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.