Homemade Cajun Seasoning
Homemade Cajun Seasoning is a bold spice blend that will add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. This simple recipe using a common blend of herbs and spices can be made with just a few common ingredients right in your own kitchen.
I’ve been making homemade seasoning recipes for a few reasons. The store-bought blends often contain ingredients I don’t want – like sugar, too much salt, and preservatives. The homemade spice blends only take a few minutes to put together. This Cajun Seasoning is definitely better than anything you’d find at the store and is so easy to make.
The essential herbs and spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano and more all work together to create a unique and flavorful experience. It’s spicy enough for most of my family except one. For, her I create a second batch with extra cayenne and label it as so. Crafting your own seasonings allows you to customize them for your tastes, spice level, and dietary needs.
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Vegetable Skillet is one recipe I use this cajun seasoning in and we love this Grilled Cajun Chicken Sandwich. Cajun Kabobs are another easy meal to make using this spice blend. We like to serve them over a bed of rice.
What is Cajun Seasoning Made Of?
Homemade Cajun Seasoning is made of herbs and spices including garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and I use smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Making your own Cajun seasoning is a great way to take control of the ingredients you’re using, like the salt – you can decrease the amount or leave it out. This homemade recipe allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking and ensure that your seasoning is fresh and flavorful.
Spice up your recipes with a taste of Cajun with this easy-to-make seasoning blend.
Timesaving Tips and Variations
- Check the expiration date of your spices and herbs. You want to make sure you have the freshest ingredients.
- Store homemade spices in an airtight container like mason jars. Keep them in a cool dark place.
- If your spices are in a clump, they are still good! You can pour the contents into a bowl and mash the lumps with a whisk or use a small food processor to blend again.
- The cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit your heat level.
- In place of the herbs, you can use Italian seasoning.
- Double, even triple this recipe to have the herb and spice mixture on hand anytime.
When possible, it’s best to use high-quality spices and herbs for any seasoning blend you want to make.
What’s the difference between Cajun Seasoning and Creole Seasoning?
You might be curious about the difference between Creole and Cajun seasonings. While both are similar spice blends, their names and specific ingredients can vary depending on regional preferences. In Louisiana, Creole seasoning is more commonly used, while Cajun seasoning is more prevalent outside of the state. Creole seasoning typically includes a wider variety of herbs compared to the Cajun seasoning ingredients.
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Recommended Tools to Use to Make Cajun Seasoning
The tools needed are very few and you will most likely have them. I have linked to my favorite spice jars but every day mason jars work very well.
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Ingredients
Full amounts for the ingredients are in the recipe card below. I have linked a few that you may not be familiar with but are needed.
- garlic powder
- smoked paprika
- onion powder
- dried oregano
- dried thyme
- cayenne pepper
- white pepper
- fine sea salt
This homemade Cajun pepper seasoning recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and versatile seasoning that will elevate the flavor of your dishes.
How to Make Cajun Seasoning
Grab your measuring spoons, a bowl, and a jar with a lid. Measure out all of the ingredients and place them in a medium bowl.
Mix together and then pour into a jar with a lid. Store in a cool, dark place, like your pantry for up to six months.
Surprise your foodie friends with a homemade gift! Fill spice jars with your favorite seasoning blends and add a personal touch with a cute ribbon and the recipe.
Cajun Seasoning Uses
Don’t limit Cajun mix to traditional dishes. Experiment with using it to season meats, vegetables, and seafood for a delicious and unexpected flavor profile.
Here’s a rundown of other ideas to use Cajun spice:
- Proteins: chicken, fish, shellfish, pork, beef, and even tofu.
- Vegetables: great for nearly all veggies, especially good on potatoes.
- Dips: stir some into your chip and veggie dips.
- Marinades: when marinating meats, seafood, or vegetables add some of the seasoning to the marinade.
- Pasta: great in sauces like Alfredo.
Experiment, enjoy, and let the flavors of Louisiana come alive in your kitchen.
Recipes Using Cajun Seasoning Blend
These are just a sampling of what you can use the bold spice mix in. My favorite is the mac and cheese!
- Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet
- Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Beef Tenderloin Grillades
This spice mix can be used in countless ways to enhance your dishes. Experiment and discover your favorite ways to incorporate this delicious spice blend into your cooking.
Printable Recipe Card
Homemade Cajun Seasoning
Equipment
- fork
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 teaspoons dried oregano
- 4 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons white pepper (black pepper works too)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cajun seasoning by combining all ingredients together in a bowl. Stir to combine and transfer to an airtight container.
Notes
- Check the expiration date of your spices and herbs. You want to make sure you have the freshest ingredients.
- Store homemade spices in an airtight container like these spice jars. Keep them in a cool dark place.
- If your spices are in a clump, they are still good! You can pour the contents into a bowl and mash the lumps with a whisk or use a small food processor to blend again.
- The cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit your heat level.
- In place of the herbs, you can use Italian seasoning.
- Double, even triple this recipe to have the herb and spice mixture on hand anytime.
Nutritional Disclaimer
“Blogghetti” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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